Scene V.—The Forest.
Reading edition
[Knight and Lady enter arm in arm.]
Knight [radiantly]—We are now safe. Thy father would never hunt us here. We shall spend our day in the forest.
Princess—It is even so.
Knight [looking around joyously]—The birds shall sing at our wedding. Fragrant wild flowers shall be thy wedding bouquet. Oh! let us scorn not Nature, for she and Love are great friends.
Princess—Yea, 'tis so.
[The King's voice is heard without.]
Knight [suddenly in alarm]—Ah, woe! woe! Here comes thy father. I must not flee, but fight.
Princess [clinging to Knight]—Oh! go not forth, my Knight!
Knight—That angry voice! I hoped never to hear more. I am young, I thought experienced. He is old, yet mighty.
King [enters]—Fight with me, Sir Knight, and defend your lady with your body. Do your best, for I am come to test your fame.
[Duel with swords, Knight falls.]
Knight—Alas! I am weak and my courage fails. Spare me, O King.
King—So, thou pleadest for mercy. Yea, mercy thou shalt have. But go thou away, far away. Be banished, nevermore to return.
[Knight departs mournfully.]
King [embracing daughter tenderly]—Weep not, daughter. I shall banish thy lover till thou shalt be more careful how thou dost elope. Have done with thy weeping. Thou shalt have no tears left for thy other lovers if they dare to come.
Princess [in tears]—Ah, cruel father! dost thou have no pity for me?
King—Why did'st thou not tell me before, oh, daughter! I knew not how true was thy love. Would I could call the brave Sir Constantine back. But that is against the law.